Leaders of Forum for Democratic Change Katonga faction conducted a mobilization tour in Wakiso last month, where thousands of their supporters urged them to form a new political party and part ways with the FDC-Najjanankumbi group.
Consultation meetings are currently ongoing in various places, and last Dr Kizza Besigye was in Mityana district. Despite the advantages of forming a new political party, there are challenges awaiting them.
One such challenge is attracting strong and vibrant members from the Najjanakumbi group. While some members of the Katonga faction perceive the Patrick Amuriat-led outfit as having lost its influence, it still possesses resources that the new party lacks. Additionally, Amuriat and Nandala Mafabi enjoy strong support in the Eastern region.
Another challenge is Dr. Kizza Besigye’s age and apparent fatigue. When Besigye first contested in 2001, he was 45 years old. Political activism has taken a toll on his life and health, making him less vibrant and vocal than he was in the 2000s. Though still influential, he may not be relied upon to build a political organization for the future.
Besigye once stated that when he turns 70, he will take a back seat, which will be next year. This means that leaders like the Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, Kiira municipality MP Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda, and others will need to carry on the mantle.
Yet another challenge is the potential clash with the National Unity Platform (NUP) party over support in Buganda. Prominent leaders of the proposed party, such as Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, Ssemujju Nganda, and Wasswa Birigwa, hail from Buganda, where NUP enjoys massive support. This could lead to friction and, in some cases, violence as they vie for positions and influence.
The issue of political opportunists cannot be ignored, as they tend to flock to influential political organizations regardless of their ideals or principles.
Besigye and his Katonga group will need to be vigilant against opportunists who may derail their cause.
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